Top 8 Tips for Beach Trips with Kids!

Ah, the joys of a family outing at the beach. Sun, sand, waves and fun, can it get any better? Ok, back to reality. If you are a parent your beach thoughts are probably more along the lines of: sunburns, soggy clothes, sandy diapers and a long car ride home filled with all of the above. Lucky for you we’ve compiled this handy list of beach tips to keep the whole family happy and healthy.

1. Sunscreen

Need we say more? Well actually yes! Did you know children 6 months to 10 years should be wearing at least SPF 30, waterproof sunscreen? And remember to look for the white stuff that blocks both UVA and UVB rays. Kids 10 and over should be wearing at least SPF 15, and that goes for you too, parents! If your little ones came into this world less than 6 months ago, they should be kept out of the sun to protect their very sensitive skin.

2. Vinegar

Toss a bottle of vinegar in your beach tote to neutralize the pain of jellyfish stings!

3. Baby Powder

You can beat and brush yourself with a towel all you want, but that sand is NOT going to come off your damp skin. Sprinkling baby powder will help absorb the moisture from the waves and voila! The sand will fall right off. Try sprinkling some on your sandals and brushing them off before you climb into the car.

4. Beach Toys!

Sometimes less is more, folks. Keep it simple and bring standard beach staples: bucket, shovel, and beach ball (deflated). Your back will thank you for not having to haul that huge bag of toys back up the sandy hill after a long day.

There are few things more uncomfortable than driving home in a wet, sandy swimsuit. Do yourself and your kids a favor and bring a change of warm dry clothes. Include undies and socks for the little ones to keep them cozy in the car.

6. Waterproof Bags

Bring along a waterproof bag to store wet, sandy clothes once the beach day is over. We found Planet Wise Wet Bags, which are a great alternative to a plastic grocery or trash bag; they are reusable and completely waterproof! Find them here: http://www.diaperjunction.com/planet-wise-wet-bag.html

7. First Aid Kit

The sandy beaches can be the ultimate hiding place for broken glass, sharp seashells and splinters. Hopefully you won’t have to use it, but you will be so thankful you packed it should someone get a boo-boo.

8. Snack & Hydrate

All that sun and salty air can cause some serious dehydration. Bring plenty of water for the whole family to stay healthy and hydrated. It’s always a good idea to bring snacks too. Pack sandwiches in a cooler, grapes and pretzels. Packing your own food can be a healthier and less expensive option than hitting up the snack bar.

Top 8 Tips for Beach Trips with Kids! was last modified: June 13th, 2014 by Michelle Head